Being pregnant during the festive season is a truly special experience. You get to enjoy all the love and cheer that comes with the holidays and also have a little bun in the oven to celebrate.

But, when it comes to festive eating, you have to be careful with what you eat. As an expecting mom, you have to ensure that you eat the right foods and avoid anything that might harm you or your baby.

DOs of Festive Eating

1. Enjoy a Variety of Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are an essential part of every healthy diet, and they become even more important during pregnancy. They provide your body with important vitamins and minerals that help support your baby’s growth and development.

When it comes to festive eating, make sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your meals and snacks. You can opt for seasonal produce such as apples, pears, cranberries, and pumpkins to add a festive touch to your meals.

2. Choose Lean Proteins

Protein is important during pregnancy as it helps build and repair your body’s tissues. It also provides the amino acids needed for your baby’s growth and development.

When it comes to festive eating, choose lean proteins such as turkey, chicken, fish, and tofu. These are all great sources of protein and are also low in fat.

3. Drink Plenty of Water

Water is important during pregnancy as it helps transport nutrients to your baby and helps flush out toxins from your body. It also helps prevent dehydration which can lead to preterm labor.

When attending festive parties, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and try to limit your intake of sugary or alcoholic beverages.

4. Opt for Whole Grains

Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat pasta provide your body with important vitamins and minerals. They also help keep you full and prevent blood sugar spikes.

When it comes to festive eating, opt for whole grains instead of refined grains such as white bread and pasta. You can also try incorporating festive grains such as wild rice or barley into your meals.

5. Practice Food Safety

Food safety is important during pregnancy as your immune system is weaker than usual. This means that you are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses.

When attending festive parties, make sure to choose foods that are cooked thoroughly and handled properly. Avoid any foods that are undercooked or made with raw or unpasteurized ingredients.

DON’Ts of Festive Eating

1. Avoid Unpasteurized Cheese

Unpasteurized cheese such as feta, brie, and blue cheese can contain harmful bacteria that can harm you and your baby. When attending festive parties, make sure to avoid any cheeses that are made with unpasteurized milk.

2. Limit Your Intake of Processed Foods

Processed foods such as chips, cookies, and cakes can contain high amounts of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. These foods provide little to no nutritional value and can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

When attending festive parties, try to limit your intake of processed foods and instead opt for healthier options such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

3. Avoid Raw or Undercooked Meats

Raw or undercooked meats such as sushi, rare steaks, and deli meats can contain harmful bacteria such as listeria which can harm you and your baby.

When attending festive parties, make sure to choose meats that are cooked thoroughly and avoid any meats that are undercooked or raw.

4. Steer Clear of Alcohol

Alcohol is not safe to consume during pregnancy as it can harm your baby’s growth and development. When attending festive parties, make sure to steer clear of any alcoholic beverages.

You can opt for mocktails or other non-alcoholic beverages instead.

5. Say No to Raw or Undercooked Eggs

Raw or undercooked eggs can contain harmful bacteria such as salmonella which can harm you and your baby. When attending festive parties, avoid any dishes that contain raw or undercooked eggs such as eggnog or custards.

Conclusion

Festive eating during pregnancy should be enjoyable but also safe for you and your baby. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that you and your baby stay healthy and happy throughout the festive season.

Remember to stay hydrated, eat a variety of nutritious foods, and practice food safety at all times. Happy holidays!.